Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

 

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe: A Comforting Classic from the Old World Kitchen

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a dish that’s been passed down through generations—and Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are exactly that kind of recipe. Known across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, these tender cabbage leaves filled with savory meat and rice, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce, are the kind of food that says “home.”

Whether you're making them for a holiday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is both satisfying and easier than you think. Let’s get rolling!

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🌿 What Are Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a traditional dish made by wrapping seasoned meat and rice in boiled cabbage leaves, then baking or simmering them in tomato sauce. In Polish cuisine, they’re called gołąbki; in Romanian, sarmale; and in Jewish cooking, holishkes. Whatever the name, they all share one thing: pure comfort.

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🧺 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Rolls:

• 1 large head of green cabbage

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp paprika (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp sugar

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme (optional)

• 1/2 cup water or broth

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🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Core the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water.

• As the outer leaves soften (after 2–3 minutes), gently peel them off with tongs and set them aside to cool. Repeat until you have about 10–12 large leaves.

2. Make the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine ground meat, uncooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, and seasonings.

• Mix thoroughly until well combined, but don’t overwork it.

3. Make the Sauce

• In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.

• Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, herbs, salt, and pepper.

• Simmer for 10–15 minutes, then add a splash of water or broth to thin if needed.

4. Assemble the Rolls

• Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the stem end.

• Fold in the sides and roll tightly, like a burrito.

• Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls

• In a large baking dish or Dutch oven, spoon a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.

• Place rolls seam-side down, side by side.

• Cover with the remaining sauce.

• Cover tightly with foil or a lid and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, until tender.

💡 Alternatively, simmer the rolls on the stovetop over low heat for about 1 hour in a covered pot.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a meal on their own, but they go beautifully with:

• Mashed potatoes or crusty bread

• A dollop of sour cream

• Fresh parsley on top for garnish

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🌱 Want a Vegetarian Option?

Replace the ground meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. Keep the rice and follow the same process. Delicious and hearty without the meat!

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🧊 Can You Freeze Them?

Yes! Stuffed cabbage rolls freeze beautifully. Place cooled rolls in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop with extra sauce.

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Final Thoughts

Stuffed cabbage rolls might look fancy, but they’re surprisingly simple and endlessly comforting. With just a few wholesome ingredients and a bit of love, you can bring this timeless dish to your table—one roll at a time.

So go ahead: roll up your sleeves, fill your kitchen with the scent of simmering tomatoes, and enjoy the kind of meal that brings people together.